National Gluten Free Day

Joyful person wearing a trendy gluten-free t-shirt, enjoying a picnic in a sunny wheat field surrounded by gluten-free snacks.. — National gluten free day illustration

Are you tired of feeling like a bread basket reject? Well, get ready to celebrate because it's National Gluten Free Day! Whether you have a gluten intolerance, celiac disease, or just want to explore the world of gluten-free eats, this special day is all about embracing the gluten-free lifestyle. So put on your gluten-free apron and get ready to dive into a world of deliciousness without the pesky grains!

When is Gluten Free Day?

It's national gluten free day on the 13th January.

A Brief History of National Gluten Free Day

Although gluten-free diets have gained popularity in recent years, National Gluten Free Day is a relatively new addition to the calendar. It was first observed on January 13, 2021, according to our trusty internet sources. This special day serves as a reminder to educate ourselves about gluten intolerance and to create awareness about dietary options for those who need to avoid gluten.

Gluten-Free Goodies Galore

With the rise of gluten-free awareness, there has been a surge in gluten-free products and recipes. From gluten-free bread to pasta and pastries, the options are endless. So why not celebrate National Gluten Free Day by indulging in some delicious gluten-free treats? Whip up a batch of gluten-free chocolate chip cookies or explore your local gluten-free bakery for some mouthwatering options.

Support and Awareness

National Gluten Free Day is also a time to show support and compassion for those who follow a gluten-free lifestyle. If you have a friend or loved one who can't consume gluten, consider hosting a gluten-free dinner or baking a special gluten-free treat. It's a fantastic way to bond and show that you care. Plus, you might just discover some new favorite recipes along the way!

History behind the term 'Gluten Free'

2500 BC

The Ancient Egyptians and Gluten-Free Grains

The roots of gluten-free diets can be traced back to ancient civilizations. In ancient Egypt around 2500 BC, there were indications that some individuals had an understanding of gluten-related issues. The Egyptians would sometimes use a mortar and pestle to separate the bran and germ from wheat, realizing that these components caused digestive discomfort. Additionally, they discovered alternative grains like millet, sorghum, and rice, which did not contain gluten.

1st Century AD

The Early Rise of Gluten-Free Bread

In the 1st century AD, during the Roman Empire, a physician named Aulus Cornelius Celsus wrote about a condition called 'coeliac affections.' This could potentially be one of the earliest documented references to gluten-related disorders. Around the same time, the Jewish population started making matzo, a type of unleavened bread, during Passover. Matzo was gluten-free, as it did not contain wheat, barley, rye, or spelt.

1888

The Discovery of Celiac Disease

The term 'celiac disease' was first coined in 1888 by an English physician named Dr. Samuel Gee. He provided a detailed description of the symptoms and suggested that the condition might be related to diet. Dr. Gee recommended the removal of grains, particularly wheat, from the diet of individuals with celiac disease. This marked a significant milestone in recognizing the connection between gluten and health issues.

1941

The Introduction of the Gluten-Free Diet

During World War II, a Dutch pediatrician named Dr. Willem-Karel Dicke made a breakthrough discovery while treating children with celiac disease. Due to food shortages, bread made from wheat was scarce in the Netherlands. Dr. Dicke noticed that the symptoms of his young patients significantly improved during this period. He identified that the removal of wheat from their diet was the reason behind their improvement, ultimately leading to the introduction of the gluten-free diet.

2004

The Gluten-Free Labeling Rule

In the United States, the term 'gluten-free' gained official regulatory status in 2004. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) implemented the Gluten-Free Labeling Rule, establishing a standardized definition for gluten-free products. This ruling ensured that individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities could trust the accuracy of gluten-free labels on packaged foods, providing them with safer food options and greater peace of mind.

Did you know?

Did you know that gluten-free diets have been around for centuries? Ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians and Greeks, had various forms of gluten-free grain alternatives. So, our ancestors were getting their gluten-free game on way before it became a trendy lifestyle choice!